Increase in Insurance Claims

Insurers in Michigan say the past seven weeks of winter weather has resulted in a dramatic increase in auto and property insurance claims in Michigan. And with the increase in claims there’s always the chance it could mean higher insurance premiums. The Insurance Institute of Michigan says however it’s too early to know how the increase in claims will affect premiums. Standard homeowners policies generally cover damage that result from a freeze. For example, if house pipes freeze and burst or if ice forms in gutters and causes water to back up under roof shingles and seep into the house. You would also be covered if the weight of snow or ice damages your house. However, most policies do not cover backups in sewers and drains. Coverage for sewers and drains is generally offered as an endorsement to a standard homeowners insurance policy.